Do you research dining options as part of the Disney vacation preparation process? I have to admit to neglecting this aspect of vacation planning. With so many details to consider (what to wear, where to stay, all the baby gear to pack, etc), we usually just “swing it” when it comes to meals…which doesn’t always end well.

During our most recent trip to California Adventure, our family wandered in to the Fiddler, Fifer, & Practical Cafe on our way to Soarin’ Over California. We were weary and hot after a morning of attractions.

Our first impressions were positive. The delicatessen and cafe features wooden bench-style seats and open glass “bakery style” windows.

We were hoping to find a few sandwiches or salads that would suit our healthy appetites and line up with our daughters’ palettes.

Unfortunately, the fast-casual restaurant featured only four sandwiches – all heavy on the vinaigrette side of things:

Roast Beef & Cheddar Sandwich with Horseradish Sauce ($9.69)

Turkey Rueben with Sauerkraut ($9.69)

Paneer & Roasted Vegetable Sandwich with a Spicy Tomato Sauce ($8.99)

Salami Royale with an Olive Vinegar Sauce ($8.99; pictured)

We settled on the last option.

Our three daughters (ages 6, 3, and 6 months), like many young children, were not thrilled by the sour sauce. Both my husband and I agreed that we wished that there had been more “traditional” sandwich options – perhaps a Turkey & Provolone Sandwich, a Grilled 4-Cheese Sandwich, and/or a Roast Beef and Cheddar Melt (minus the horseradish).

Note that several of the sandwiches are sold as a half-sandwich, which isn’t exactly filling after a hard day of play.

If you’re looking for a coffee, espresso, or smoothie, this place is a good stopping point. The Starbucks-branded beverages range from $2.69-$5.49, depending on your drink of choice. You can also ask for a tall glass of complimentary water.

If, however, you’re looking for a lunch spot with little ones, skip this dining venue in favor of something more kid-friendly and with more “fun factors.”

Where do you like to eat lunch in California Adventure? What restaurant inside the park offers the most filling entrees?

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Stephanie Sheaffer is an entrepreneur, writer, runner, and the mother of three little girls. In 2011, she traveled 20,000 miles around the USA with her family in a 300sqft RV. At the end of the trip, her 5-year-old said Disney World was her favorite stop! She now resides in Arizona and blogs at Metropolitan Mama. Follow her on Twitter @stephsday.

Looking for a breakfast spot in California Adventure? Rev up your engines and head to Cars Land for a retro dining experience at Flo’s V8 Cafe. The fast-casual restaurant features 50′s decor that keeps time with the “Cars” movie. Enjoy oldies tunes, fun pink sparkly seats, and mementos from Flo’s singing career.

Choose to sit indoors or out on the patio…both provide a fantastic view of the Radiator Springs Racers and the desert sand dunes beyond.

Try the American Breakfast for $7.99. The plate includes scrambled eggs, breakfast potatoes, bacon, and a biscuit. A hearty choice.

Got a sweet tooth? You’ll likely enjoy the Brioche French Toast ($7.99). The toast is topped with a generous helping of caramel sauce with bananas sliced on top. Our 6-year-old gobbled this up, smacking her lips with each bite. Note that this entree is on the smaller side and may not be quite as filling as the American Breakfast (though it is deliciously rich and dessert-y).

For healthier fare, choose the Seasonal Fruit Plate ($5.49). Includes a medley of in-season fruit, a small cup of strawberry yogurt, and a blueberry muffin.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Stephanie Sheaffer is an entrepreneur, writer, runner, and the mother of three little girls. In 2011, she traveled 20,000 miles around the USA with her family in a 300sqft RV. At the end of the trip, her 5-year-old said Disney World was her favorite stop! She now resides in Arizona and blogs at Metropolitan Mama. Follow her on Twitter @stephsday.